ABSTRACT Homestay tourism has emerged as an important component of rural and sustainable tourism in India, particularly in culturally rich regions such as Sikkim. Authenticity is considered a key factor influencing tourists’ experiences, satisfaction, and perceptions of homestay services. This study examines the precedence of factors that determine the authenticity of homestays in Gangtok, focusing on cultural, economic, and sustainability aspects. Using primary data collected from 176 respondents through a structured questionnaire, the study applies RIDIT (Relative to an Identified Distribution Integral Transformation) analysis to evaluate the relative importance of various authenticity-related factors. The findings indicate that traditional architecture of homestays, local cuisines and culinary practices, and community involvement are the most significant drivers of perceived authenticity. However, challenges such as commercialization, modernization, and standardization threaten the uniqueness of homestay experiences. The study contributes to the growing discourse on sustainable tourism and provides policy recommendations for enhancing the authenticity of homestays in Sikkim.